Choose your preferred wireless provider
Since years, automakers have installed WiFi hotspots in their cars. Customers are often locked into the service provider chosen by the automaker. But that is about to change with the new Volkswagen. The company has announced Carrier Of Choice this week. This program gives VW owners more options when it comes to choosing a wireless carrier that will provide their vehicle’s mobile hotspot. VW has partnered both with Verizon and T-Mobile in order to provide WiFi hotspot capabilities through its network.
Car-Net The service was launched in 2014, and since then has moved to a new generation software that allows for deeper digital integration with the company’s vehicles. Customers can easily link their existing VW Car-Net subscription with their mobile wireless account. Car-Net provides a range of connected car features, including remote access, parking information and many other useful information. This information is easily accessible via both iPhones and Android smartphones.
Existing Verizon and T-Mobile customers can add their vehicle to their monthly bill by simply adding it as an additional line. T-Mobile and Verizon customers can also set up unlimited plans for $20 per month, plus taxes and fees. This allows easy streaming of digital content via phones and tablets. Customers can enjoy 4G LTE speeds that should be strong enough to keep their kids happy.
As automakers develop more tech-rich cars, data services and monthly subscriptions will be more common. VW’s Car-Net service is only one of many digital services it offers. Customers can pay $49 per year for live traffic updates via Plus Nav, $8 per year for 30,000 radio stations via Plus Online Radio, or $9 per year to subscribe to Plus Speech. Natural language can be used for vehicle controls using natural language through a Plus Speech subscription. Car-Net is an option in all 2020 VW models.